Hemmings Find of the Day – 1941 Crosley Deluxe Sedan Convertible

Though the term “subcompact” is most often associated with imports from Japan or Germany, Crosley began building subcompact automobiles in Indiana as early as 1939. Thanks in part to a fuel economy as high as 50 MPG, Crosley was allowed to continue automobile production into 1942, after larger automakers had been ordered to shift production to aid the war effort. This 1941 Crosley Deluxe Sedan, for sale on Hemmings.com, was likely built before the official entry of the United States into the Second World War, but the potential for upcoming hardships (like fuel rationing) may have factored heavily into the original purchase decision. This example is being sold with its original air-cooled two-cylinder engine, plus a second engine with low hours. It’s said to be relatively rust free, though the convertible top reportedly needs some attention. From the seller’s description:

Nice older restoration. Paint is very good. No evidence of rot except small floor pan repair. Has original 2 cyl. motor plus extra motor with low hours.Needs some work on convertible top, back seat apholstory. I have back seat frame. front seats are redone.

larry youngsays:

June 29, 2013 10:29 am

Dansays:

June 29, 2013 7:38 pm

A funny little car that, I’m sure, would also be a lot of fun. However, were I in the market for an early Crosley, I’d be more inclined to take the similar one in the sidebar: it looks to be in better shape, it’s closer to me, and the asking price is only $1,000 higher than the featured example.

billysays:

August 24, 2014 5:07 pm

my uncle had one of these cars I need to get to my dads house where it’s at for 10 yearshe said there was only three of them brought to the US and they look very rareI thought it was a cool looking card look like Adolf Hitler should be driving itbut its sat until it rotaway and he sold it for $300I just wanted to know if only three were in the u.s in the 1980 S